Neuschwanstein Castle, located in Bavaria, is one of Germany’s most famous attractions, drawing millions of visitors from around the world. However, its beauty and historical significance are not the only reasons to visit this castle. Neuschwanstein is also close to other must-see attractions that are well worth a visit.
Nearby, you can explore places such as Hohenschwangau Castle and the stunning Alpine lakes, among other tourist spots that you will get to know in more detail in this post. Enjoy your reading!
Hohenschwangau Castle – Neuschwanstein’s Neighbor
Hohenschwangau Castle is located about 2 km from Neuschwanstein Castle, a short and easy journey that takes just a few minutes. Hohenschwangau is known for being the childhood residence of King Ludwig II, famously known as the “Mad King.” He spent much of his early years here before moving to Neuschwanstein, a castle he commissioned after ascending to the Bavarian throne in 1864.
Hohenschwangau Castle was built by King Maximilian II, Ludwig II’s father, and for many years served as the royal family’s official summer and hunting residence.
The Historical Significance of Hohenschwangau Castle
Hohenschwangau Castle is actually a reconstruction of an ancient fortress known as Schwanstein, initiated in 1833 and completed in 1855 by Maximilian II. However, the site itself is much older, with records dating back to the 12th century, when it was known as Schwangau Fortress (District of Swans).
Over the centuries, the structure fell into ruins and was rebuilt several times, changing ownership until it was repurchased by King Maximilian II, after his grandfather, Maximilian I Joseph of Bavaria, had sold it in 1820.
This means that visitors to Hohenschwangau are stepping into a site that is far older than the 19th century, carrying centuries of history.
The Architecture of Hohenschwangau Castle
The castle’s architecture reflects 19th-century Romanticism, incorporating Neo-Gothic elements reminiscent of the medieval era. The exterior façade is painted in a yellow hue, featuring gabled roofs characteristic of the Neo-Gothic style and solid wooden doors with wrought iron details. The windows are arched, enhancing the castle’s romantic aesthetic.
Inside, the castle is adorned with frescoes depicting scenes from Germanic legends and Bavarian history. Additionally, original furniture from the time the royal family lived there remains, offering an authentic glimpse into the lifestyle of the Bavarian court.
Hohenschwangau Castle also has a terrace that provides a breathtaking view of Neuschwanstein Castle.
Alpsee – The Crystal-Clear Lake Near the Castle
Another magical place to visit near Neuschwanstein Castle is Alpsee Lake, a serene body of water known for its crystal-clear waters and the stunning mountainous landscapes surrounding it.
Alpsee covers an area of 88 hectares with a circumference of 4.7 km. Located just 1 km from Neuschwanstein, getting there is quick and easy while allowing you to enjoy the scenic route.
Activities at Alpsee Lake
Alpsee offers a peaceful setting for relaxing walks and is an excellent spot to take memorable photos of your trip. But that’s not all you can do at this picturesque lake.
If you visit during the warmer months, particularly between June and September, you can rent boats or pedal boats to explore the lake. Swimming is also an option, as Alpsee is considered one of the cleanest lakes in Germany.
Tegelberg – A Mountain for Sports and Panoramic Views
Renowned for its breathtaking panoramic views and adventure sports, Tegelberg Mountain is located about 2 km southwest of Neuschwanstein Castle in Bavaria. Standing at an altitude of 1,881 meters, it offers sweeping views of Schwangau, the nearby castles, and the Bavarian Alps.
Activities on Tegelberg Mountain
Visitors can take a cable car ride to the summit, enjoying unique aerial views of the region. In summer, there are numerous hiking trails leading to the top, including a popular route that passes through Pöllat Gorge and Neuschwanstein Castle.
In winter, the mountain transforms into a snowy wonderland, ideal for skiing and other winter sports. Paragliding is also a popular activity, offering an incredible way to admire the landscape from above.
Füssen – The Charming Medieval Town Near the Castle
Füssen is a small town in southern Germany, just 5 km from the Austrian border, and serves as the final stop on Germany’s famed Romantic Road. It is the closest city to Neuschwanstein and Hohenschwangau Castles, making it a convenient base for visitors.
Despite its small size, Füssen boasts excellent tourist infrastructure, with great accommodation options, restaurants, bakeries and shops. It’s a fantastic place to have lunch or even stay overnight.
Highlights of Füssen
Füssen’s well-preserved historic center features narrow streets and charming old squares, inviting visitors to explore its rich history. The town is also home to the St. Mang Abbey, a Benedictine monastery founded in the 8th century, which now houses the Füssen City Museum.
Another must-visit site is Lechfall, a beautiful waterfall offering panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. The area also features a monument dedicated to King Maximilian II, who often visited to enjoy the natural beauty.
Wieskirche – The UNESCO-Listed Rococo Church
Wieskirche, or the Church of Wies, is a historical church built between 1745 and 1754, located in a rural area of southwestern Bavaria, about 5 km from Steingaden.
The church was constructed following a reported miracle in 1743, when a local woman claimed to have seen a statue of Christ shedding tears. This event attracted many pilgrims, leading to the construction of Wieskirche. In recognition of its cultural and historical significance, it was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Rococo Architecture
Designed by brothers Johann Baptist and Dominikus Zimmermann, Wieskirche is a masterpiece of Rococo architecture. Its oval-shaped structure features a white and pink exterior, ornately framed doors, and carefully placed windows to enhance natural light.
Inside, the ceiling frescoes by Johann Baptist Zimmermann depict scenes from the life of Christ and the Virgin Mary, while the main altar is dedicated to the “Scourged Savior,” a focal point for pilgrims since 1738.
Garmisch-Partenkirchen – The Heart of the German Alps
Garmisch-Partenkirchen is a picturesque town in Bavaria, near the Austrian border, known for its winter sports tradition and having hosted the 1936 Winter Olympics. It is about 65 km from Neuschwanstein Castle, approximately a 1 hour and 15-minute drive.
Main Attractions in Garmisch-Partenkirchen
Zugspitze, the highest mountain in Germany. Visitors can explore Zugspitze, Germany’s highest mountain at 2,962 meters, accessible by train or cable car. Another highlight is Partnach Gorge, a dramatic 700-meter-long ravine carved by the Partnach River.
Additionally, Eibsee Lake, located 9 km from the town, boasts turquoise waters and is ideal for swimming, boating, and hiking.
Königssee – Germany’s Most Beautiful Lake
Königssee is a glacial lake in southeastern Germany, near Schönau am Königssee. It is part of Berchtesgaden National Park and is known for its emerald-green waters and towering mountain surroundings.
Boat Tour on Königssee
A boat ride across Königssee is a must-do experience. The tour stops at St. Bartholomä, a historic pilgrimage church with distinctive red domes, inspired by Salzburg Cathedral. One of the highlights of the boat trip is experiencing the natural echo of the lake, demonstrated by local guides playing a trumpet to create a stunning acoustic effect.
Dedicated to Saint Bartholomew, visitors can reach the church by boat tour or through a long hike along the lake’s shore.
Entry is free. For those planning to visit by boat, it is important to check availability and operating hours, especially in winter when services are reduced.
Hike to Obersee
From Königssee Lake, visitors can reach the secluded and idyllic Obersee Lake, located within Berchtesgaden National Park.
To get to Obersee, you must take an electric boat from the southern end of Königssee and disembark at Salet station. From there, a short 15-minute walk leads to the northern shore of Obersee, where a scenic trail along the shoreline offers breathtaking views of the lake and surrounding mountains.
Once there, visitors can enjoy the crystal-clear waters of Obersee and explore various hiking trails with different levels of difficulty. One of the most popular routes leads to Fischunkelalm, a rustic fisherman’s hut at the southern end of the lake. This moderately challenging hike takes approximately 1 to 2 hours to complete.
A Well-Planned Trip
Neuschwanstein Castle is just the starting point for exploring Bavaria’s rich cultural and natural heritage. There are numerous attractions nearby, each offering unique experiences that complement a visit to Neuschwanstein.
To make the most of your trip, consider a personalized itinerary tailored to your interests—whether history, nature, or culture. Majestic Germany can help you plan an unforgettable experience, including English-speaking guides for your tours of King Ludwig II’s castles.
Get in touch to see how easy it is to enjoy a seamless travel experience in Germany—without worrying about transportation, routes, accommodation, or language barriers!